California Personal Injury Statute of Limitations

California limits how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. Miss the deadline and a strong case can be dismissed — regardless of how serious your injuries are.

The General Rule: Two Years

For most negligence claims — car accidents, slip and fall, dog bites, and similar injuries — California Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1 gives you two years from the date of injury to file suit.

The clock usually starts on the day of the accident. Do not wait until you finish treatment; investigation and negotiation take time, and evidence disappears.

Claims Against Government Entities

If a city bus, municipal vehicle, or other public entity caused your injury, you may need to file a government claim within six months of the incident before you can sue. Missing that administrative deadline can bar your case entirely.

When the Deadline May Be Extended

Exceptions exist — for minors, when an injury is discovered later, or when the defendant left the state — but they are fact-specific. Never assume an exception applies without speaking to an attorney.

Why Acting Early Helps Your Case

• Witness memories fade and surveillance footage is deleted
• Skid marks, vehicle damage, and scene conditions change
• Insurers take claims more seriously when you are represented early

Related: After a car accident checklist · Personal injury overview

Disclaimer: Deadlines vary by case type and defendant. This page is not legal advice.

For representation, visit our Personal Injury practice area.